Taylor Swift Makes a Surprise Appearance on the Billboard Music Awards Red Carpet

Though she was nominated for multiple categories at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, no one knew if Taylor Swift would attend this year’s event. On Sunday night, however, the pop star made eager viewers’ dreams come true when she graced the red carpet wearing a pink embellished dress in a surprise appearance, her first one at an awards show in two years.

T-Swift’s gown featured feathers, beading, and an asymmetrical full sleeve on one side. The high slit that cut all the way up to her thigh revealed matching metallic T-strap heels. Taylor kept her styling understated, with loose waves pinned up into a low bun surrounded by several twists and a simple makeup look: dark eyeliner and heavy lashes that complemented her bold, dark red lip (of course). But the look did recall her Red era much more than the goth-chic, snake-loving lewks she's been sporting during recent Reputation moments.

Taylor took her seat at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a spot that was reserved for a “mystery guest” between Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello in the crowd, where she promptly began dancing and singing along to the show. (Camila is currently performing as one of the opening acts on Taylor’s Reputation world tour, and Shawn performed with the 28-year-old singer during the Pasadena concert just one day before the 2018 Billboard Music Awards.) At Sunday’s show, Tay was nominated in five categories that included the Top Artist Award alongside Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Bruno Mars, and her close pal Ed Sheeran. She also took home the award for Top Female Artist.

Fans, understandably, lost their minds when Taylor appeared on the red carpet. “TAYLOR SWIFT SHUT DOWN THE #BBMAS LOOK WHAT YOU MADE HER DO,” one fan said. “She’s doing better than she ever was!!!!” another wrote.